Cars and driving have been a powerful source of inspiration for musicians across genres. From the thrill of speed to the metaphor of the open road, these machines have fueled countless anthems. Buckle up and explore over 100 of the best Drive Song Cars tracks that celebrate automobiles and the driving experience.
Songs about cars and driving illustration
2Pac – Picture Me Rollin’
As a West Coast hip-hop icon, 2Pac naturally included car culture in his music. “Picture Me Rollin’,” from his acclaimed All Eyez on Me album (1996), perfectly captures the cruising lifestyle of Los Angeles. He paints vivid imagery of riding through the city streets in a Mercedes Benz, while also admiring Lexus and Chevy models, making it a true drive song cars classic.
50 Cent – Get in My Car
Known for his impressive car collection, 50 Cent’s “Get in My Car” from The Massacre (2005) is an ode to his automotive passion. The music video showcases a striking yellow Ferrari convertible, but the lyrics specifically shout out his Mercedes Benz, emphasizing the gleaming chrome rims. He even nods to Dayton spokes, a signature rim style in Lowrider culture, cementing its place in the drive song cars genre.
AC/DC – Highway to Hell
AC/DC’s “Highway to Hell” is the ultimate rock anthem for a wild ride, even if it’s a metaphorical one to the underworld. This title track from their 1979 album was inspired by the band’s relentless touring and their frequent drives on Perth’s Canning Highway. It’s a high-energy track perfect for pushing the pedal to the metal, making it a staple drive song cars selection for rock fans.
Alan Jackson – Mercury Blues
Originally written and recorded by blues musician K.C. Douglas in 1948, “Mercury Blues” is a timeless tribute to the Mercury car line, a Ford brand known for its blend of luxury and affordability. Countless artists have covered this tune, but Alan Jackson’s 1993 country version reached the Top Five, introducing a new audience to this classic drive song cars gem.
Ariana Grande – Honeymoon Avenue
Ariana Grande’s “Honeymoon Avenue,” a poignant ballad from her debut album Yours Truly (2013), uses the car journey as a metaphor for a relationship’s ups and downs. She skillfully compares relationship struggles to a car trip, reflecting on past challenges in the rearview mirror. The imagery of being stuck in traffic and longing for the smooth roads of “Honeymoon Avenue” resonates deeply, making it a unique and emotional drive song cars choice.
Bass Mekanik – Bass Mechanic
Bass Mekanik, pioneers of bass-heavy music, started their journey crafting test tones for car subwoofers in a Miami car shop. “Bass Mechanic,” from their 1999 album V 5.0, is an electrifying track designed to be blasted from car stereos. Its powerful bass and electro vibes make it the quintessential drive song cars instrumental for cruising down sunny boulevards.
The Beach Boys – Fun, Fun, Fun
The Beach Boys, synonymous with California car culture, captured teenage rebellion and automotive freedom in “Fun, Fun, Fun” (1966). This hit tells the story of a girl joyriding in her dad’s Ford Thunderbird behind his back. The Beach Boys’ fascination with cars is well-known, and this track, along with “Little Deuce Coupe,” solidifies their contribution to the drive song cars canon.
Beastie Boys – High Plains Drifter
Beastie Boys’ “High Plains Drifter” from Paul’s Boutique (1989) takes listeners on a cross-country criminal escapade. This track puts the listener in the passenger seat of an anti-hero hot-wiring cars, engaging in petty theft, and outsmarting the police. With mentions of an 8-track player and an early cell phone, it’s a nostalgic and quirky drive song cars narrative.
The Beatles – Drive My Car
“Drive My Car,” a cheerful track from The Beatles’ Rubber Soul (1966), is a playful take on ambition and relationships. It features a girl who dreams of stardom and asks a boy to be her chauffeur. While seemingly lighthearted, the song title itself is iconic in the drive song cars theme. Interestingly, George Harrison later explored a more literal car song with “Faster,” inspired by Formula 1 racing.
Beck – The Golden Age
Beck’s “The Golden Age,” the opening track from his introspective album Sea Change (2002), uses the car as a sanctuary for escaping loneliness and heartbreak. The song evokes a sense of peace found in a solitary drive, windows down, with the evening breeze providing solace. It’s a mellow and atmospheric drive song cars selection for quieter moments on the road.
Big Tymers – Get Your Roll On
New Orleans hip-hop duo Big Tymers flaunt their opulent car collection in “Get Your Roll On” from I Got That Work (2000). Birdman and Mannie Fresh rap about their expensive rides, from Benzes to Bentleys, emphasizing big rims, loud exhausts, and visible price tags. It’s a quintessential drive song cars track celebrating luxury automobiles.
Billy Ocean – Get Outta My Dreams, Get Into My Car
Billy Ocean’s “Get Outta My Dreams, Get Into My Car” is an 80s pop classic that, while perhaps slightly dated in its approach, became a global sensation in 1988. The song is a direct plea to a woman to join him for a romantic drive. Its catchy melody and upbeat tempo made it a perfect drive song cars hit, even featured in the teen comedy License to Drive.
Bob Seger – Makin’ Thunderbirds
Bob Seger’s “Makin’ Thunderbirds” from The Distance (1982) offers a unique perspective on car songs. Instead of glorifying driving, it pays tribute to the workers who built the iconic 1950s Ford Thunderbird. Seger, hailing from Detroit, takes on the persona of a factory worker proudly recalling his role in crafting these luxurious vehicles, adding a blue-collar angle to the drive song cars theme.
Bruce Springsteen – Born to Run
Bruce Springsteen’s “Born to Run,” a 1975 classic, encapsulates teenage dreams, romance, and the yearning to escape small-town life. Specifically referencing Freehold, New Jersey and Highway 9, the song is an anthem of aspiration and driving towards a brighter future. It’s a powerful and timeless drive song cars choice for anyone seeking freedom.
Cake – The Distance
Cake’s deadpan alt-rock hit “The Distance” from Fashion Nugget (1996) uses a race track setting as a metaphor for perseverance beyond the finish line. While initially sounding like a racing song with revving engines and sharp turns, it evolves into a reflection on relentless pursuit, even after a race or relationship has ended. Its quirky lyrics and driving rhythm make it a memorable drive song cars track with a deeper meaning.
Canned Heat – On The Road Again
Canned Heat’s “On The Road Again,” from their 1968 album Boogie with Canned Heat, is a hypnotic blues rendition that became their first major hit. This wistful song about the constant travel of touring musicians, highlighted by Alan Wilson’s unique falsetto vocals, perfectly captures the feeling of perpetual motion, solidifying its place as a classic drive song cars anthem.
The Cardigans – Daddy’s Car
The Cardigans’ “Daddy’s Car,” from their 1995 album Life, paints a dreamy picture of childhood European summer road trips. This cheerful pop-rock tune evokes nostalgic imagery of family drives across continents, making it a sweet and sentimental drive song cars selection.
The Cars – Drive
The Cars’ “Drive,” a heartfelt 1984 ballad, became one of their biggest international hits. Reaching Top 5 charts globally, this song’s romantic theme is amplified in its music video, where frontman Ric Ocasek met his future wife, model Paulina Porizkova. Its emotional depth and slow tempo make it a more melancholic, yet equally compelling, drive song cars option.
Chamillionaire feat. Krayzie Bone – Ridin’
Chamillionaire’s chart-topping hit “Ridin’,” featuring Krayzie Bone, from The Sound of Revenge (2005), takes on themes of police encounters and racial profiling while driving. The rappers daringly challenge law enforcement in their lyrics, while the music video further emphasizes these serious issues, making it a socially conscious and impactful drive song cars track.
Charlie Ryan and the Livingston Bros. – Hot Rod Lincoln
Charlie Ryan’s “Hot Rod Lincoln,” originally released in 1955, tells the exciting tale of a hot rod race where a souped-up Model A Lincoln outpaces a Ford and a Mercury. Based on Arkie Shibley’s earlier song, it’s from the perspective of the mysterious Lincoln driver, celebrating hot rod culture and high-speed thrills, a classic narrative in drive song cars history.
Chet Baker – Spinning Wheel
Chet Baker’s instrumental cover of Blood, Sweat & Tears’ “Spinning Wheel,” recorded in 1970 for Blood, Chet and Tears, offers a jazzy take on the psychedelic tune. While the original lyrics are open to interpretation, the jazz rendition by legendary trumpeter Chet Baker provides a sophisticated and groovy drive song cars instrumental option.
Chuck Berry – No Particular Place to Go
Chuck Berry’s “No Particular Place to Go,” a witty 1964 hit, follows up his earlier car song “Maybellene.” This song depicts a carefree drive with his sweetheart, listening to the radio and sharing kisses. Humorously, the romance is hilariously interrupted when he struggles to unbuckle her seatbelt, adding a lighthearted and relatable touch to the drive song cars genre.
Cybotron – Cosmic Cars
Cybotron, Detroit techno pioneers, released the futuristic and pulsating track “Cosmic Cars” before their 1983 debut, Enter. Reflecting Detroit’s decline in their innovative electronic music, “Cosmic Cars” offers a message of escapism through futuristic vehicles, a unique and electronic drive song cars experience.
The Dead Milkmen – Bitchin’ Camaro
The Dead Milkmen’s signature song, “Bitchin’ Camaro,” from Big Lizard in My Backyard (1985), is a punk parody of pop culture. This track humorously describes a trip to the Jersey Shore in a “bitchin’ Chevy Camaro” to buy Def Leppard and Mötley Crüe T-shirts, delivered with their signature spoken-word style and bluesy riff, a satirical drive song cars anthem.
Deep Purple – Highway Star
Deep Purple’s “Highway Star,” from their iconic Machine Head album (1972), is an explosive hard rock ode to the passion for cars. Written on a tour bus, this song, which opens the album, features legendary guitar and organ solos, perfectly capturing the high-speed energy and excitement of driving, making it a definitive drive song cars track for rock enthusiasts.
Dr. Dre feat. Snoop Dogg, Ruben & Jewell – Let Me Ride
Dr. Dre’s “Let Me Ride,” featuring Snoop Dogg, Ruben, and Jewell, from his groundbreaking album The Chronic (1992), celebrates lowrider culture. Cruising through Compton, Dr. Dre references his 1964 Chevrolet Impala, Dayton rims, and hydraulic switches, painting a vivid picture of West Coast car customization and making it a quintessential drive song cars hip-hop anthem.
The Dresden Dolls – The Jeep Song
The Dresden Dolls’ “The Jeep Song” is a quirky punk cabaret track about being haunted by an ex and his ubiquitous 1996 Jeep Cherokee in Boston. Navigating her blue Volvo, the protagonist shudders at every Jeep Cherokee sighting, turning a common car model into a symbol of past relationship pain, a unique and darkly humorous drive song cars perspective.
Eddie Cochran – Somethin’ Else
Eddie Cochran’s “Somethin’ Else,” a 1959 rockabilly single, tells the story of a young man’s pursuit of a convertible to impress a girl. Ultimately, he buys an older 1941 Ford and musters the courage to ask her out. This song captures the youthful desire for a cool car as a means to romance, a classic theme in drive song cars narratives.
Elastica – Car Song
Elastica’s “Car Song,” from their self-titled 1995 debut, is a cheeky Britpop tune about intimate encounters in a Ford Fiesta (or Honda). This short, energetic track is playfully suggestive and directly references the car as a setting for romance, adding a lighthearted and Britpop flair to the drive song cars playlist.
Foghat – Slow Ride
Foghat’s “Slow Ride,” from their 1975 album Fool for the City, while potentially about more than just cars, is deeply associated with 70s car culture and cruising. Thanks to films like Dazed and Confused, this iconic hard rock track evokes images of 70s cars and leisurely drives, making it a nostalgic and classic drive song cars selection.
Frank Ocean – White Ferrari
Frank Ocean’s “White Ferrari,” from his album Blonde (2016), is a wistful reflection on a past teenage romance. The song’s title itself evokes luxury cars, and it includes an interpolation of The Beatles’ “Here, There and Everywhere,” blending nostalgia and modern R&B in a sophisticated drive song cars style.
Gary Numan – Cars
Gary Numan’s “Cars” is a new wave classic where the British artist finds safety and solace within his car. Deceptively simple yet incredibly catchy, this track from The Pleasure Principle reached No.1 in the UK and Canada and was a Top Ten hit in the US, becoming an iconic and synth-driven drive song cars anthem of isolation and comfort.
The Go-Go’s – Skidmarks on My Heart
The Go-Go’s “Skidmarks on My Heart,” from Beauty and the Beat (1981), humorously portrays jealousy towards a boyfriend obsessed with his Pontiac GTO. With lyrics like “I buy you cologne, you want axle grease,” the song captures the frustration of competing with a car for affection, adding a female perspective to the drive song cars theme.
Golden Earring – Radar Love
Golden Earring’s “Radar Love,” a 1973 cult favorite from their album Moontan, became an international hit. The song tells the story of a long-haul driver receiving telepathic messages of love from his girlfriend, symbolized as “Radar Love,” making it a unique and suspenseful drive song cars narrative.
Grace Jones – Pull Up to the Bumper
Grace Jones’ “Pull Up to the Bumper,” a funky 1981 club hit from Nightclubbing, uses a suggestive double entendre with lines like “Pull up to my bumper baby, in your long black limousine.” This iconic song, celebrated for its boldness and innuendo, has become a LGBTQ+ pride anthem and a dance classic, adding a provocative and energetic drive song cars option.
Iggy Pop – The Passenger
Iggy Pop’s “The Passenger,” from Lust for Life (1977), celebrates the nomadic life of a musician. Inspired by riding around with David Bowie in his car, Iggy Pop described it as being about “riding around North America and Europe in David’s car ad infinitum,” capturing the feeling of constant movement and observation, a poetic and iconic drive song cars track.
Jackie Brenston and his Delta Cats – Rocket 88
“Rocket 88,” recorded in 1951 by Jackie Brenston and his Delta Cats, is widely considered the earliest rock ‘n’ roll song. This upbeat tune pays tribute to the sporty Oldsmobile Rocket 88. Written by Ike Turner and based on an earlier song about a Cadillac, it’s a foundational drive song cars track that celebrates a specific car model and the burgeoning rock and roll sound.
Jan & Dean – Dead Man’s Curve
Jan & Dean’s “Dead Man’s Curve,” a 1964 hit, eerily foreshadowed a tragic accident. It details a fatal teen road race between a Corvette Stingray and a Jaguar XKE in Los Angeles. Disturbingly, Jan Berry was seriously injured in a car accident near “Dead Man’s Curve” two years later, adding a chilling real-life dimension to this drive song cars cautionary tale.
Janis Joplin – Mercedes Benz
Janis Joplin’s “Mercedes Benz,” from her posthumous album Pearl (1971), is an a cappella commentary on consumerism. In this tongue-in-cheek song, Joplin asks God for material possessions like a color TV, a night out, and a Mercedes Benz, contrasting it with her friends’ Porsches, offering a satirical and minimalist drive song cars performance.
Jimmy Smith – King of the Road
Jimmy Smith and Wes Montgomery’s instrumental interpretation of Roger Miller’s “King of the Road,” from Further Adventures of Jimmy and Wes (1968), provides a bluesy jazz rendition of the classic country tune. Featuring organist Jimmy Smith and guitarist Wes Montgomery, along with Ray Barretto on percussion, it’s a sophisticated instrumental drive song cars choice.
John Fogerty – Hot Rod Heart
John Fogerty’s “Hot Rod Heart,” from his Grammy-winning album Blue Moon Swamp (1997), celebrates the simple joy of country joyriding. Mentioning Buicks and Harleys, the song is about cranking up the radio, enjoying the fresh air, and escaping daily life through a drive, a feel-good and classic rock drive song cars anthem.
Kanye West feat. Paul Wall & GLC – Drive Slow
Kanye West’s “Drive Slow,” featuring Paul Wall and GLC, from Late Registration (2005), is a cautionary tale using cars and car culture as a metaphor for a fast-paced lifestyle. The trio name-drops various car models and accessories, from Chevy Caprices to Mercedes-Benz CL-Class, Vogue tires, and Brabus rims, making it a detailed and metaphorical drive song cars hip-hop track.
Johnny Cash – One Piece at a Time
Johnny Cash’s “One Piece at a Time,” a 1976 novelty song and No.1 country hit, tells a humorous story of a GM plant worker stealing Cadillac parts to build his own car, one piece at a time. The comical result is a car made of parts from 1949 to 1970, a funny and narrative drive song cars story.
Kendrick Lamar – Backseat Freestyle
Kendrick Lamar’s “Backseat Freestyle,” from Good Kid, M.A.A.D City (2012), offers tongue-in-cheek social commentary through the dreams of a teenager wanting a Maserati and a lavish lifestyle. This track uses car aspirations to highlight youthful ambition and social critique, a modern and insightful drive song cars perspective.
Kesha – Gold Trans Am
Kesha’s “Gold Trans Am,” a bonus track from the deluxe edition of Warrior (2012), is a suggestive song about intimate encounters in a gold Trans Am. Notably, Kesha actually owned a gold Trans Am, and her songwriter mother, Pebe Sebert, co-wrote this highly suggestive track, adding a personal and playful touch to the drive song cars theme.
Kraftwerk – Autobahn
Kraftwerk’s “Autobahn,” the 22-minute title track from their 1974 album, is an iconic and pioneering electronic driving song. Named after the famous German highway, it was Kraftwerk’s first song with lyrics, simply repeating “We drive drive drive on the Autobahn.” Its minimalist and repetitive nature perfectly captures the hypnotic experience of driving on a highway, a revolutionary drive song cars masterpiece.
L’Trimm – Cars That Go Boom
L’Trimm, a female hip-hop duo, celebrate boys with powerful car subwoofers in their infectious 1988 classic “Cars That Go Boom.” Tigra and Bunny declare their appreciation for booming bass and impressive car sound systems, even in Jaguars or Lamborghinis, making it a fun and bass-heavy drive song cars anthem.
Lana Del Rey – White Mustang
Lana Del Rey’s “White Mustang,” from her 2017 album, mourns a failed summer romance with a Mustang-driving musician. The song evokes a sense of longing and lost love associated with a specific car and a fleeting relationship, a melancholic and cinematic drive song cars ballad.
Les McCann – Green, Green Rocky Road
Les McCann’s soulful and energetic rendition of “Green, Green Rocky Road,” a 1965 single, adds a jazz twist to the folk song. Based on a children’s game, this version by jazz pianist Les McCann brings a lively and improvisational feel to the drive song cars collection.
Lil Troy feat. Fat Pat, H.A.W.K., Lil Will & Yungstar – Wanna Be A Baller
Lil Troy’s “Wanna Be A Baller,” from Sittin’ Fat Down South (1999), features Fat Pat, H.A.W.K., Lil Will, and Yungstar. Sampling Prince’s “Little Red Corvette,” the artists rap about driving a Chevy Impala with 20-inch rims and a high-end Mercedes Benz with Vogue tires and a “presidential package,” showcasing Southern hip-hop car culture in a drive song cars anthem.
LL Cool J – The Boomin System
LL Cool J’s “The Boomin System,” from Mama Said Knock You Out (1990), is an anthem for car audio enthusiasts. Written for those who love to blast bass-heavy music from their cars with windows down, it’s a celebratory drive song cars track for showcasing powerful sound systems.
Lost Boyz – Jeeps, Lex Coups, Bimaz & Benz
Lost Boyz’ “Jeeps, Lex Coups, Bimaz & Benz,” the lead single from their 1996 debut Legal Drug Money, name-checks various car types popular on both coasts. The Queens, NY crew gives shout-outs to Jeeps, Lexus Coupes, BMWs (“Bimaz”), and Mercedes Benzes, highlighting diverse car preferences in a drive song cars hip-hop track.
Lucinda Williams – Car Wheels on a Gravel Road
Lucinda Williams’ “Car Wheels on a Gravel Road,” the title track from her Grammy-winning 1998 album, evokes nostalgic southern childhood road trips. The song captures the sights and sounds of these journeys, creating a vivid and personal drive song cars memory.
Luke Bryan – My Ol’ Bronco
Luke Bryan’s “My Ol’ Bronco,” from his Spring Break EP series (2015), pays tribute to the simple joys of his beloved 70s Ford Bronco. This country track celebrates the sentimental value of an old, reliable vehicle, a heartfelt and nostalgic drive song cars ode.
M.I.A – Bad Girls
M.I.A.’s “Bad Girls,” a 2012 anthem, celebrates female empowerment and driving freedom. Singing about driving a Jeep Cherokee and “leavin’ the boys behind,” the music video, shot in Morocco, supported the Women to Drive movement in Saudi Arabia, making it a politically charged and empowering drive song cars track.
Massive Attack – Be Thankful for What You Got
Massive Attack’s trip-hop transformation of William DeVaughn’s 1974 soul tune “Be Thankful for What You Got,” from their 1991 debut Blue Lines, carries a message of contentment. It reminds listeners to be grateful for what they have, even without a Cadillac, a message of humility within the drive song cars theme.
MC Nas-D & DJ Freaky Fred – It’s My Cadillac (Got That Bass)
MC Nas-D and DJ Freaky Fred’s “It’s My Cadillac (Got That Bass),” the title track from their 1992 album, is a definitive Miami bass car song. Celebrating Cadillacs and high-end sound systems, it’s an energetic and bass-heavy drive song cars anthem for cruising Miami streets.
Meridian Dan feat. Big H & JME – German Whip
Meridian Dan’s “German Whip,” featuring Big H and JME, released in 2014, is a UK grime track that praises high-end German cars like Audis, BMWs, Mercedes-Benzes, and Porsches. This fast-paced song, which revitalized the UK grime scene, is a modern and regionally specific drive song cars celebration of luxury automobiles.
Metallica – Fuel
Metallica’s “Fuel,” from their 1997 album Reload, uses motor racing imagery throughout. Often interpreted as being about living life in the fast lane, this Grammy-nominated fan favorite became even more associated with speed when Dodge licensed it for performance vehicle ads, solidifying its place as a high-octane drive song cars track.
Mike Jones feat. Paul Wall & Slim Thug – Still Tippin’
Mike Jones’ “Still Tippin’,” featuring Paul Wall and Slim Thug, from Who Is Mike Jones? (2005), pays tribute to Houston car culture. Mentioning Vogue tires, flashy rims, Cadillac Escalades, and his hometown, it’s a regional hip-hop drive song cars anthem celebrating local style.
Model 500 – Night Drive (Thru-Babylon)
Model 500’s “Night Drive (Thru-Babylon),” a supremely funky 1985 electro track by Detroit DJ Juan Atkins, was inspired by late-night drives on Michigan’s I-96 interstate. This instrumental track perfectly captures the atmosphere of nighttime driving, a moody and atmospheric drive song cars choice.
Natalie Cole – Pink Cadillac
Natalie Cole’s cover of Bruce Springsteen’s “Pink Cadillac,” released in 1988, became a Top Ten hit. Declaring “My love is bigger than a Honda, it’s bigger than a Subaru,” she emphasizes the desire for a luxurious pink Cadillac, turning Springsteen’s song into a pop-soul drive song cars anthem of desire and status.
Nelly – Ride Wit Me
Nelly’s “Ride Wit Me,” a Top 5 hit from Country Grammar (2000), shouts out Mercedes Benz E-Class and Range Rovers. The music video features a Pontiac Firebird Trans Am and a Peterbilt 379 truck filled with women, making it a flashy and celebratory drive song cars hip-hop track.
Olivia Rodrigo – drivers license
Olivia Rodrigo’s record-breaking debut “drivers license” is an emotional ballad about teenage heartbreak and newfound driving freedom. Receiving her license becomes bittersweet after a breakup, as driving around town only brings back memories of lost love, making it a poignant and relatable drive song cars track for young drivers.
Outkast – Two Dope Boyz (In a Cadillac)
Outkast’s “Two Dope Boyz (In a Cadillac),” from their album ATLiens (1996), highlights the Cadillac’s significance in Southern culture. Rapping about driving Cadillacs in Atlanta, specifically Coupe DeVilles and Fleetwoods, Outkast connects luxury cars with their Southern identity, making it a culturally rich drive song cars hip-hop track.
PJ Harvey – Driving
PJ Harvey’s early demo “Driving” is a haunting and minimalist track about a woman escaping in her car in a white gown. Ambiguous and atmospheric, it evokes a sense of mystery and flight, adding an art-rock and enigmatic drive song cars option.
The Playmates – Beep Beep
The Playmates’ “Beep Beep,” a 1958 novelty song, tells a humorous tale of a Cadillac being challenged to a race by a Nash Rambler. The song’s tempo increases as the race progresses, culminating in a punchline ending, a lighthearted and comedic drive song cars track.
Primus – Jerry Was a Race Car Driver
Primus’ “Jerry Was a Race Car Driver,” from Sailing the Seas of Cheese (1991), tells a quirky story of Jerry, a race car driver who meets a tragic end in his Oldsmobile Cutlass 442 after drinking. This funky and narrative track adds a darkly humorous and alternative drive song cars story.
Prince – Little Red Corvette
Prince’s “Little Red Corvette,” a Top Ten hit from 1999 (1982), uses a red corvette as a metaphor for a fast and fleeting romantic encounter. Describing a woman who “Love ‘em and leave ‘em fast,” Prince creates a sensual and metaphorical drive song cars classic.
Queen – I’m in Love with My Car
Queen’s “I’m in Love with My Car,” from A Night at the Opera (1975), written and sung by drummer Roger Taylor, is a high-energy rock anthem about a man’s obsession with his car over his girlfriend. Featuring Brian May’s riffs and a cameo from Taylor’s Alfa Romeo, it’s a passionate and guitar-driven drive song cars track for car enthusiasts.
Reba McEntire – I’d Rather Ride Around with You
Reba McEntire’s “I’d Rather Ride Around with You,” a country hit from What If It’s You (1996), is about choosing a joyride with a sweetheart over a cousin’s wedding. This upbeat and romantic country track celebrates simple pleasures and companionship while driving, a cheerful drive song cars choice.
Rich Boy feat. Polow Da Don – Throw Some D’s
Rich Boy’s “Throw Some D’s,” featuring Polow Da Don, a Top Ten single from his 2007 debut, is about making money and buying a Cadillac. This hip-hop track equates success with owning a Cadillac, a status symbol in car culture, making it a boastful and aspirational drive song cars anthem.
Rick Ross feat. Drake & Chrisette Michelle – Aston Martin Music
Rick Ross’ “Aston Martin Music,” featuring Drake and Chrisette Michelle, from Teflon Don (2010), is a tribute to the luxurious Aston Martin. Referencing James Bond, the world’s most famous Aston Martin driver, it’s a sophisticated and opulent drive song cars track celebrating high-end automobiles.
Rihanna – Shut Up and Drive
Rihanna’s new wave-influenced hit “Shut Up and Drive,” from Good Girl Gone Bad (2007), uses car metaphors for romance. Singing about Maybachs and Ferraris and declaring herself “class like a ‘57 Cadillac,” Rihanna creates a sultry and energetic drive song cars track full of innuendo.
Roger Miller – King of the Road
Roger Miller’s “King of the Road,” a chart-topping crossover hit from 1964, is sung from the perspective of a carefree vagabond. Finding joy in freedom despite being poor, the character embodies a spirit of independence and contentment on the road, a classic and folksy drive song cars narrative.
The Rolling Stones – Route 66
The Rolling Stones’ cover of “Route 66,” opening their 1964 self-titled debut, is a classic ode to the iconic American highway. Adding swagger to this R&B standard, the British rockers envisioned their first US tour as they sang about stops along Route 66, making it a foundational rock and roll drive song cars anthem.
Ronny & the Daytonas – GTO
Ronny & the Daytonas’ “GTO,” a jaunty 1964 tune, expresses admiration for the sporty Pontiac GTO. Their debut single became a gold record and their only Top 5 hit, marking a successful start for the surf rock group and a classic drive song cars tribute to a specific car model.
Rose Royce – Car Wash
Rose Royce’s “Car Wash,” a chart-topping 1976 disco hit, was also the theme song for the movie Car Wash. With a funky beat and lyrics about the car wash being better than “digging a ditch,” it’s an upbeat and disco-infused drive song cars track with a working-class theme.
Roy Orbison – I Drove All Night
Roy Orbison’s “I Drove All Night,” though recorded in 1987 but released posthumously in 1992, is more famously known through Cyndi Lauper’s 1989 global hit version. This enduring power ballad about driving all night for love has also been covered by Celine Dion, showcasing its timeless appeal as a passionate drive song cars anthem.
Rush – Red Barchetta
Rush’s “Red Barchetta,” from Moving Pictures (1981), tells a vivid story of a young man secretly driving his uncle’s vintage Ferrari Barchetta in a futuristic, car-restricted world. Inspired by Richard Foster’s short story, it’s a narrative and progressive rock drive song cars track about freedom and rebellion.
Sam Hunt – Body Like a Back Road
Sam Hunt’s “Body Like a Back Road,” a crossover country hit from 2020, compares his girlfriend’s body and their relationship to a slow drive on a back road. With lyrics about going “way back like Cadillac seats” and being on “a highway to heaven,” it’s a romantic and country-pop drive song cars track.
Sammy Hagar – I Can’t Drive 55
Sammy Hagar’s “I Can’t Drive 55,” inspired by a speeding ticket, became a 1984 fan favorite. Rebelling against the 55 MPH speed limit, the song and its iconic music video, featuring Hagar outrunning cops in a Ferrari BB512i, became a rock anthem of speed and defiance, a quintessential drive song cars track for speed lovers.
Shania Twain – In My Car (I’ll Be The Driver)
Shania Twain’s “In My Car (I’ll Be The Driver),” from Up! (2002), is a witty and empowering country-pop tune. Warning her man not to be a backseat driver, Shania asserts her control behind the wheel, making it a fun and assertive drive song cars anthem for female drivers.
Shirley Horn – The Rules of the Road
Shirley Horn’s rendition of “The Rules of the Road,” from her 2001 album You’re My Thrill, is a cool jazz performance of the classic tune. Comparing romance to “The Rules of the Road,” Shirley Horn’s smooth jazz interpretation adds sophistication to the drive song cars theme.
Sir Mix-A-Lot – My Hooptie
Sir Mix-a-Lot’s “My Hooptie,” a 1989 single, is a humorous contrast to his later hit “Baby Got Back.” This song is about his dilapidated 1969 Buick, missing parts and mismatched, but still loved. Despite its flaws, it’s “got heat and fuzzy dice,” a funny and relatable drive song cars ode to a less-than-perfect car.
Slick Rick feat. Doug E. Fresh – Sittin’ in My Car
Slick Rick’s “Sittin’ in My Car,” featuring Doug E. Fresh, a 1995 single, depicts Slick Rick waiting in his Jeep for his girlfriend, lamenting past romantic disappointments. This track uses the car as a waiting space for romantic encounters, a narrative and hip-hop drive song cars track with a touch of melancholy.
Smokey Robinson – Cruisin’
Smokey Robinson’s “Cruisin’,” a smooth 1979 ballad from When There’s Smoke…, became one of his biggest solo hits. Perfect for a romantic Sunday drive, this sultry track is the quintessential slow-jam drive song cars selection for intimate moments.
Snow Patrol – Chasing Cars
Snow Patrol’s “Chasing Cars,” a 2006 love song from Eyes Open, emphasizes simple pleasures and human connection. Watching cars drive by becomes a moment of shared peace and contentment in this ballad, making it a tender and reflective drive song cars choice.
Steppenwolf – Born to be Wild
Steppenwolf’s “Born to be Wild,” a 1968 hard rock hit, became iconic through its use in Easy Rider. While technically about motorcycles, it’s the ultimate anthem of freedom, adventure, and hitting the open road, making it a definitive drive song cars (and bikes) track for rebellious spirits.
Taylor Swift – Getaway Car
Taylor Swift’s “Getaway Car,” from Reputation (2018), uses the “getaway car” metaphor to describe escaping one relationship into another that’s doomed to fail. This dramatic and narrative pop song uses car imagery to explore relationship dynamics and escape, a modern and storytelling drive song cars track.
Tom Cochrane – Life Is A Highway
Tom Cochrane’s “Life Is A Highway,” a rollicking 1991 single from Mad Mad World, compares life’s journey to driving a highway, urging listeners to make the most of it. This upbeat and optimistic track became a No.1 hit in Canada and a Top Ten hit in the US, a universally appealing and motivational drive song cars anthem.
Tom Petty – Running Down a Dream
Tom Petty’s “Running Down a Dream,” from Full Moon Fever (1989), revels in the joy of driving on a sunny day while pursuing musical dreams. Referencing Del Shannon’s “Runaway,” Petty creates a classic rock drive song cars track about optimism and the open road.
Tracy Chapman – Fast Car
Tracy Chapman’s “Fast Car,” a bluesy Top Ten hit from her 1988 debut, tells a story of dreaming of a better life and escape through a fast car. Working as a check-out girl, Chapman’s lyrics express a longing for a faster life and a way out, making it a poignant and socially conscious drive song cars narrative.
Traveling Wilburys – End of the Line
The Traveling Wilburys’ “End of the Line,” from their 1989 debut The Traveling Wilburys Vol. 1, delivers a message of self-acceptance and contentment. With lyrics like “Don’t have to be ashamed of the car I drive, I’m just glad to be here, happy to be alive,” it’s a feel-good and reflective drive song cars track about gratitude.
Vince Taylor & His Playboys – Brand New Cadillac
Vince Taylor’s “Brand New Cadillac,” a 1959 rock and roll single, tells the story of a girl leaving her boyfriend for a brand new Cadillac. Covered by The Clash and many others, this rockabilly track is a classic tale of cars, relationships, and status, a foundational drive song cars narrative.
War – Low Rider
War’s “Low Rider,” a 1975 classic from Why Can’t We Be Friends?, paints a vivid picture of lowrider culture. With simple lyrics and a funky groove, it evokes the slow-moving, custom car scene, making it a relaxed and iconic drive song cars track.
White Zombie – Black Sunshine
White Zombie’s “Black Sunshine,” from La Sexorcisto: Devil Music Volume One (1992), is a metal anthem about a fast Ford Mustang named “Black Sunshine.” Featuring a spoken-word intro by Iggy Pop, this high-energy track is a metal and industrial drive song cars selection for high-speed intensity.
Wilco – Passenger Side
Wilco’s “Passenger Side,” from their 1995 debut A.M., is a song about relying on a sober friend for rides due to a suspended license. Lamenting his demons, the protagonist is relegated to the passenger seat, adding a touch of self-deprecation and alternative rock to the drive song cars theme.
Willie Nelson – On the Road Again
Willie Nelson’s “On the Road Again,” a Grammy-winning 1980 hit, celebrates the life of a touring musician. Written for the film Honeysuckle Rose, this signature song became synonymous with Nelson and the joys of travel, a country classic and quintessential drive song cars anthem.
Wilson Pickett – Mustang Sally
Wilson Pickett’s “Mustang Sally,” originally by Mack Rice, became a global R&B hit in 1966. Lamenting buying his girlfriend Sally a 1965 Ford Mustang, as she now only wants to drive, it’s a soulful and cautionary drive song cars tale of automotive obsession in relationships.
Think we missed one of the best drive song cars anthems on our list? Let us know in the comments below.
